Muscle degeneration, also known by its medical term “Muscular dystrophy” is the process by which muscles lose their ability to function properly. But is this preventable? For some folks, yes, and others it’s hereditary and also due to ageing.
What is muscle degeneration?
There are different types of muscle degeneration or as mentioned earlier (muscular dystrophy). Since it also happens as an ageing process and is gradual and thus important to make sure that your elderly loved one has the best people around taking care of them.
- Congenital muscular dystrophy – occurs in babies
- Distal muscular dystrophy – often occurs between ages 40 to 60
- Limb-girdle – the hip and shoulder muscles weakens
- Oculopharyngeal – affects facial muscles such as the eye lids and also affects the throat in a slow progression
What diseases can make muscles degenerate?
One of the most common forms of muscle degeneration through disease is ASL (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). This is a progression of muscle degeneration which leads to immobility and affects the heart in the end. Osteoarthritis can also lead to muscle mass wasting away. Arthritis leads to painful joints and bones and reduced movement as a result. The less the muscles are active, the more they are prone to degenerate.
How is muscle dystrophy diagnosed?
Tests are done via sampling blood. This will assess the enzymes found inside. Next, more blood work to check for any hereditary. Sometimes a doctor will do a muscle biopsy to help determine whether a patient has it.
Help to keep your elderly loved one’s muscles healthy by adapting the following:
They must eat a nutritious diet that includes protein
A lot of what goes into strong, healthy muscles boils down to the food we eat. Some foods such as protein directly affect the muscles and are important to consider in the diet. Let your health care worker know what your senior loved one can and cannot eat, bearing allergies in mind too.
Regular exercise
As your parent ages, exercise becomes more straining if not done properly. Many care facilities provide professional exercise programs suited to seniors. These are not high impact and gentle while helping to strengthen their muscles.
Keep them hydrated
Water has so many benefits for the body as well as helping to keep muscles doing great. Remember that herbal teas are also another good option to help them stay hydrated. Caffeine on the other hand, is dehydrating and probably not good for regular consumption.
They must get enough rest
Getting enough sleep is crucial for improved quality of life and health. Some elderly folks sleeping patterns may change with time, but ensuring that they sleep enough is important.
Brooklyn Care nursing specialists can help you and your loved one find peace of mind through quality care services.
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FAQ – Muscle Degeneration
How do you prevent muscle degeneration?
- Eat protein rich food
- Excercise frequently
- Reduce alcohol consumtion
What causes muscle degeneration?
- Not enough excercise
- Broken bones
- Excessive alcohol consumtion
How do you treat muscle degeneration?
- Getting lots of excercise and phyical therapy may reverse this kind of muscle atrophy
What are the symptoms of muscle degeneration?
- Difficulty in balancing
- Weakness in limb
- having my arm or leg smaller than the other